THE AMAZING POWER OF THE SUN: EXPLORING RENEWABLE ENERGY
The sun is an amazing thing. It means we can see during the day, it can keep us warm, it helps plants grow and even impacts our weather and the seasons.
But did you know that the sun can be used to power things like your games console, computer and tablet? This is through a process which involves capturing the sun's energy (using solar panels) and converting it into electricity.
In this article, we explore exactly how solar panels can be used to harness the sun's power. We will also cover how that power can then be used in our everyday lives and why it is so much better for the environment than traditional methods of energy production.
What is Renewable Energy?
Before we dive into what solar panels are - let’s cover exactly what we mean by the term ‘renewable energy’.
Traditionally, energy is produced by burning fossil fuels such as coal. This is done by mining the coal from the ground, burning the coal to create heat, using the heat to turn water into steam and then using the steam to turn turbines in order to generate electricity.
Coal is not seen as a renewable source of energy. This is because once it is burned it is gone. There is also only a limited amount of it in the ground. So, eventually, if we keep using it, it will run out.
On the other hand, renewable energy is created from sources of energy which are not limited in any way. This includes things like the wind, the tide, the flow of water in a river or the sun.
The Magic of Solar Panels
To most of us solar panels seem magic. They collect energy from the sun and turn it into electricity that we can use in our everyday lives. But it isn’t really magic - it’s science…which is even more exciting because we understand how they work!
When the sun shines it is transmitting energy. This is why it can feel hot when we are in the sun. On most surfaces, the energy is partially absorbed (as heat) or bounces back into the surrounding area.
But solar panels contain cells which help trap some of the sun's energy. This energy is then transported using special plates and wires before being converted into electricity you can use in your home.
To make as much energy as possible from solar panels you need them to get as much sunlight as possible. This is usually achieved by having solar panels face in a southwards direction, although panels facing southwest and southeast can also collect a lot of energy from the sun.
Harnessing the Sun's Power
There are two main components that make up a solar panel system:
● Solar panels - which trap the sun’s energy
● Inverters - that convert the sun’s energy (DC) into electricity we can use in our homes (AC)
Once the inverter has done its job, there are three ways in which that electricity can be used.
Immediately in your home - for powering things like your computer or the fridge
Stored in a battery - so you can use the power later when the sun isn’t shining
Into the grid - so someone else can use the electricity you have produced (if you don’t need it)
Advantages of Solar Power
So, solar power is really cool - but why should we be using it?
Most importantly, it helps reduce our reliance on fossil fuels like coal by offering us a renewable alternative. Fossil fuels produce harmful emissions which contribute to global warming and can also pollute our air and water. So, solar can help us protect our environment in more than one way.
Solar power can also save us money. This is because, unlike energy produced by fossil fuels, solar energy doesn’t need to be mined (which is expensive). Once solar panels and an inverter have been installed, the energy you produce is entirely free.
Using Solar Power at Home
Using solar power at home is simple.
The first step is getting solar panels installed. These may be on the roof of your house or in the garden. The specialist installer will make recommendations about where to install the panels based on where they will get the most sunlight.
Once connected to your home, the panels and inverter will do all the work. So you can go about your daily life knowing that much of the electricity you are using is being generated by the sun. This includes everything such as the lights, washing machine, dishwasher, fridge and gadgets you use every day.
However, during the nighttime or when you are using a lot of electricity, you may still be getting electricity from the grid (which may be created by fossil fuels). This is why it is still a good idea to reduce the amount of electricity you use wherever possible.
Joining the Renewable Energy Movement
So, what can you do?
Here are some ways that you can help:
● Tell your friends and family about the benefits of renewable energy such as solar power
● Turn off lights and appliances in your home when you aren't using them
● Ask your teacher to teach you and your classmates more about renewable energy
● Research local renewable energy initiatives and community projects that you and your family may be able to get involved with
Solar Power: Summary
It is clear that solar power is pretty amazing. Smart solar panels allow us to collect energy from the sun and turn it into electricity that we can use in our everyday lives. By adopting renewable energy sources such as solar, we can reduce our use of fossil fuels which have a negative impact on the environment.
It is up to us to promote the use of renewable energy to help secure a bright future for ourselves and the environment we live in.
This blog post was supplied by UK based, multi award-winning solar company Solar Fast.